How to Find a Snake in the Wild

This Eastern Diamondback is not one to find

Finding snakes in the wild can be a true challenge if you do not know where to look. More importantly, finding snakes can be dangerous as well. Here is a guide to finding snakes safely in the wild.

Things You'll Need

• Knowledge of the species in your area
• Stick
• Boots
• Cell Phone

Instructions

Get Knowledge About Snakes

1. Searching for snakes in the wild is a risky business if you do not know how to do so safely. There are poisonous snakes in almost every nook and cranny of the United States and you must have a working knowledge about them.

2. The first thing you need to know about snakes is which ones are dangerous. Here is the short answer--all of them. The reason for this is because snakes often eat vermin (rats, mice and other creatures). As such, a bite from any snake has the potential to become infected and it also hurts like the devil. Respect all snakes.

3. Know those poisonous types that are in your area. The cottonmouth, copperhead, rattlesnake and coral snake are the four poisonous species in the United States. Know what they look like and if they inhabit your stretch of the woods.

Finding Snakes in the Wild

1. Get your gear together. You will need to bring a strong stick at least four feet long and a first aid kit. Also, make sure that you have a cell phone in case of an emergency. Wear thick boots when you go out as this will help to protect you from bites if you happen across an unexpected visitor.

2. Keep in mind that snakes are actually shy, reclusive creatures. They do not want to be seen or found. As such, you will need to know something about their habits. A snake likes to hide out under things. This is because they can ambush their prey and keep from being ambushed themselves. Use your stick to check under rocks, logs and fallen trees. Make sure that you do this very cautiously and from a distance. Never put your hand under anything in the woods.

3. Keep in mind that snakes are nocturnal creatures and prefer to hunt in the evening. They also like to bask in the sun during the day. You can sometimes find snakes basking on rocks or in otherwise sunny places in the midday hours.

4. Finally, remember that snakes, like all animals, need water. The water is the absolute best place to find snakes, particularly along the banks of lakes, rivers and dam sights. Extreme caution must be exercised in these areas as their are usually a number of hiding spots that would be very easy to miss. Always be alert to every step you take.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear thick boots while searching for snakes.

• Be very aware of where you put your hands and feet.

• Never attempt to handle snakes in the wild.